Traveling is exciting, inspiring, and let’s be real a little stressful. From airports to hotels, there are countless moving parts to manage for truly accessible travel. For people living with disabilities, those stressors can multiply quickly. The world isn’t built with universal accessibility in mind, which means we often have to prepare more thoroughly than the average traveler.
But here’s the good news: travel is absolutely possible, enjoyable, and worth the effort. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a work trip, or a weekend getaway, the joy of visiting new places and creating memories outweighs the hassle. As a wheelchair user for over 16 years, I’ve learned a lot about how to make the travel experience smoother, safer, and less overwhelming.
Below, I’m sharing my best accessible travel tips straight from lived experience to help you feel more confident and empowered on your next trip.
1. Travel with a Friend or Companion
Let’s start with something simple: bring a buddy. There’s no shame in traveling with a friend, partner, or family member. In fact, I highly recommend it.
While solo travel is a big goal for some, the reality is that accessibility barriers still exist everywhere. Having a trusted companion not only makes logistics easier, it makes the experience more fun. When unexpected challenges come up (like a broken elevator, an inaccessible bathroom, or confusing airport signage) it’s reassuring to know someone has your back.
Plus, let’s face it: travel memories are even sweeter when they’re shared.
2. Apply for TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry)
If you fly often, TSA PreCheck is a game changer. For wheelchair users, the security process is less invasive and far more efficient. With PreCheck:
- You keep your shoes on.
- Screenings are usually a quick pat-down plus a swab of your chair or assistive device.
- Lines tend to move faster.
While TSA PreCheck only applies to domestic flights, international travelers can apply for Global Entry for similar perks when returning to the U.S. It does take some paperwork and a small fee to apply, but the time and stress you save at security are more than worth it.
3. Check in at Every Counter
Digital boarding passes are convenient, but when you use mobility equipment, it’s necessary to stop by both the ticket counter and the gate counter in person. Here’s why:
- At the ticket counter, you can get the necessary tags for your wheelchair or medical devices and confirm you’re flagged for assistance.
- At the gate counter, you can reconfirm pre-boarding needs, get another set of tags for assistive devices, and make sure staff know you’re there.
Pro tip: Arrive at the gate early. Pre-boarding usually happens 5–15 minutes before general boarding, and it’s best to be ready.
Personal favorite domestic airline: Southwest Airlines. Their cabin layout allows many manual wheelchair users to roll directly to the front row without needing an aisle chair. It’s simple, efficient, and the staff have always been welcoming.
4. Photograph Your Assistive Devices
This tip is a lifesaver: take photos of your wheelchair or equipment before handing it over.
We’ve all heard the horror stories of mobility devices being damaged, lost, or mishandled during flights. Photos serve as documentation in case you need to file a claim for repairs or replacement. While airlines are required to handle devices carefully, mistakes still happen. Protect yourself by having clear evidence of your chair’s condition before travel.
5. Plan Ahead for Every Stop
Traveling with a disability requires a little extra planning, but trust me it pays off. Before you leave:
- Confirm your ground transportation (is it accessible? do you need to reserve ahead of time?).
- Research restaurants, attractions, and excursions to confirm accessibility features.
- Create a loose itinerary to avoid surprises.
Yes, it can feel tedious to call ahead and explain your situation repeatedly, but it’s far better than showing up at a venue that isn’t accommodating. A few extra calls before you leave can make the entire trip smoother.
6. Prioritize Rest and Elevation
Travel takes a toll on the body, especially when you’re managing circulation, skin health, or chronic pain. One of my golden rules: listen to your body.
- Elevate your feet when possible to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
- Stretch or shift positions regularly to relieve pressure.
- Consider compression socks if swelling is a challenge.
- Build downtime into your itinerary so you’re not running on empty.
Travel isn’t a sprint. Taking breaks ensures you can actually enjoy your destination instead of crashing from exhaustion.
7. Double-Check Your Hotel Accessibility
Booking an accessible room isn’t always enough and unfortunately “accessible” can mean many different things. Before you travel:
- Call the hotel within a few days of booking to confirm your accessibility request.
- Ask about specific features (roll-in shower vs. tub with seat, grab bars, space to maneuver, etc.).
- Call again 2–7 days before your trip to confirm the room assignment.
I’ve had trips where I still arrived to find the wrong room type, but multiple check-ins gave me leverage to advocate for a proper solution. While it can be frustrating, clear communication increases your chances of actually getting what you need.
8. Consider Accessible Short-Term Rentals
Hotels aren’t your only option. Accessible short-term rentals are easy to find thanks to platforms like Becoming RentAble. Benefits include:
- More detailed photos and descriptions of the exact space.
- Home amenities like a kitchen and laundry.
- Flexibility for attendants, family, or friends staying with you.
The challenge? Truly accessible rentals are rare. But when you find them, they can make travel feel far more comfortable and home-like. And if you do discover one, share it with the community and submit it to Becoming RentAble. Accessible rental information helps us all.
9. Pack Comfy, Reliable Clothing
Fashion is fun, but travel days are about comfort and reliability. I stick to tried-and-true outfits I know will work all day long. If you’re tempted to pack brand-new pieces for the trip, test them first. There’s nothing worse than realizing mid-travel that your new outfit is uncomfortable or impractical.
Comfort doesn’t have to mean sloppy. Elevated basics in breathable fabrics can look polished while keeping you comfortable through long flights, road trips, or full sightseeing days.
10. Remember Why You’re Traveling
At the end of the day, the goal is joy. Travel is an opportunity to expand your world, try new things, and connect with people and places in meaningful ways.
Yes, things will go wrong. Flights get delayed. Devices get scratched. Plans fall through. Accessibility barriers still exist. But here’s the truth: you are capable of adapting, advocating, and creating incredible memories along the way.
For me, accessible travel has been proof that I can live a full, adventurous life even with paralysis. It’s messy, unpredictable, and sometimes uncomfortable but it’s always worth it.
Final Thoughts: Accessible Travel is Possible
Traveling with a disability takes planning, patience, and resilience. But with the right preparation, it can also be empowering, liberating, and deeply rewarding.
So pack your essentials, make your calls, take your photos, and give yourself permission to both rest and explore. Accessible travel may require extra effort, but the payoff is unforgettable experiences that remind us that the world is still open to us.
Wherever you’re headed next—safe travels, and enjoy every moment of the journey.
